I still think it looks janky. I know it was the reality, I just don't get why.

Guess I just don't understand why it took so long for someone to make TT-specific reverse brake levers. It's not like they weren't already fabricating an entire frame, and handlebars specifically for the task. Just seems like the thought would have entered someone's head at some point...
"Hey, there's no reason for us to be using regular old aero hoods. Let's just make some cooler looking ones."